Quality Assurance Technician - Decatur, IL

Position Summary

The Quality Assurance Technician is an integral member of the Quality, Food Safety & Assurance Team, reporting directly to the Quality & Food Safety (QFS) Manager. This role is responsible for ensuring product quality, food safety, and compliance with all regulatory and company standards. The technician supports production teams, assists in quality decision‑making, investigates non‑conforming products, and maintains oversight during process deviations to ensure consistent, safe, and high‑quality operations.

This is an exempt level position.

• Conduct Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Food Safety Plan/HACCP, and SFSI (SQF) compliance inspections.
• Perform verification checks and assessments related to process function, sanitation, procedural practices, personnel performance, and product quality.
• Communicate findings and recommend or oversee corrective actions in collaboration with facility management.
• Collect and submit samples for periodic testing and perform analytical testing as required.
• Lead root‑cause investigations, identify root causes, and implement preventive measures.
• Provide guidance on sanitation methods and chemical usage.
• Conduct pre‑operational equipment inspections following maintenance or sanitation activities.
• Verify calibration and preventive maintenance of food‑safety related equipment and systems.
• Support facility management in evaluating process deviations, determining impact, and developing responses.
• Assist in creating and revising Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and work instructions related to food safety.
• Develop, deliver, evaluate, and improve training materials and methods.
• Provide backup coverage for the QFS Manager, QC Technicians, and Food Safety Team Leader as needed.
• Serve as Audit Leader backup when the QFS Manager is unavailable and participate in audits and meetings as required.
• Provide general QFS support to maintain operational excellence.
• Obtain SQF Coordinator and Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) certifications within one year of hire.
• Take on additional responsibilities or projects as assigned to support business objectives and personal professional growth.

• Strong commitment to food safety, product quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment while maintaining compliance.
• Excellent problem‑solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Physically able to stand, walk, and lift up to 50 pounds as part of regular duties.

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or related field preferred; or a minimum of three (3) years of prior experience in Quality Control or Quality Assurance within a food manufacturing environment.
• Prior laboratory experience and working knowledge of laboratory testing procedures and instrumentation strongly preferred.

• Exposure to chemical substances and food allergens.
• Exposure to extreme temperatures, heights, and dusty conditions.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) provided and required.

• Medical/Rx, dental, vision, and on‑site wellness center access or gym reimbursement.
• Flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching, discounted employee‑stock purchasing, life insurance, disability, workers’ compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), Colleague Giving Programs.

• Paid time off including holidays.
• Adoption assistance and paid maternity/parental leave.
• Tuition assistance.
• Company‑sponsored training and development resources.

Successful completion of a background check is required.

Compensation for this position is expected to be between $32,500.00 and $59,000.00.

We welcome all qualified applicants and celebrate diversity; we provide equitable employment opportunities for all individuals regardless of protected characteristics.

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